In this video, I’m answering a question I keep getting in the comments and even by email: can you get Social Security while living abroad? Marlene and I are both retired, and we’re literally living this out as expats, so we’re sharing our real experience—not financial advice. The big takeaway is yes, we’ve been able to receive Social Security abroad, and for us it’s been straightforward because our benefits go by direct deposit to our American bank. I also break down the “logistics” people don’t think about until they’re already overseas. Social Security may send you a “proof of life” style form (two pages plus instructions) to confirm your address, marriage/divorce status, and whether you’re working and how much you’re making. If you don’t respond in time, they can cut off benefits—so I got on that real quick. One more thing: I still recommend, if you can, handle retirement paperwork before you leave the U.S., because bureaucracy gets more complicated when you’re juggling life in another country. We also touch on dual citizenship concerns (verify with SSA and ask for the actual policy), and I add a practical side note: Medicare generally isn’t working outside the U.S., but healthcare abroad can be far more affordable—just do your homework on hospitals and insurance options.